My Miniature Schnauzer Is Blind From Glaucoma. Facts And Information About Canine Glaucoma

My Miniature Schnauzer, Baby, With Glaucoma

Note how swollen the eye is, and the pupil is white. This indicates Glaucoma

Glaucoma In Dogs Is The Same Condition People Get

Glaucoma in dogs is the same as in humans. . The major difference is we humans have our eyes checked from time to time (hopefully) by an Ophthalmologist. As part of that examination, the Ophthalmologist will do a pressure test on the eyes to make the diagnosis.

There is no cure for glaucoma. Humans with glaucoma need to continue treatment for the rest of their lives. Because the disease can progress or change silently, compliance with eye medications and eye examinations are essential, as treatment may need to be adjusted periodically.

The major difference between glaucoma in dogs and glaucoma in humans is by the time you realize your dog has vision problems caused by glaucoma it is already too late to save the dog's vision.

Baby May Be Blind, But She Is Still Beautiful.

Some Causes Of Blindness In Dogs

There are several conditions that lead to a dog’s blindness.

Diabetes It’s estimated that one in 10 dogs worldwide will eventually become diabetic.

SARDS Perhaps the most tragic and scariest of conditions is Suddenly Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome

Cataracts. This is a condition where the normally transparent lens turns cloudy preventing light from reaching the retina, can result in partial or total blindness.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) . This is an inherited condition where the cells of the retina deteriorate causing blindness.

Glaucoma. Permanent blindness can occur within hours if the pressure in the eye is high.

The Day I Realized My Dog Could Not See!

About a year ago, I noticed a white spot on my seven year old Miniature Schnauzer's left eye. I mentioned this to my Veterinarian at the time of her annual examination, but he shrugged it off, saying it was just a “Florida sunspot”. He assured me not to worry.

Six months later, the white spot seemed to be getting larger as time went on. I began to see signs Baby could not see very well. When I would throw her tennis ball, she would misjudge where the ball was. She could always catch the ball and bring it back to me. I could throw her ball from the bottom on the stairs, and she never failed to catch it in her mouth and let it drop back down to me.

When she ran right into a large trash dumpster on our daily walk, I knew beyond all doubt, my dog could not see.

I Take My Dog For A Second Opinion

As time went on, I could see her right eye appeared to be swollen and blood shot.

I took Baby to another Veterinarian for a second opinion. He advised me to take her to a Veterinary Ophthalmologist immediately!

After conducting several tests, he told me my dog had glaucoma and was blind in the right eye! After examining her left eye, he could see signs she had diminished sight in that eye also. The first tissue to die when glaucoma occurs is the optic nerve. He further explained there was nothing that could be done to save her sight. The damage had already been done. There were no signs of glaucoma in the left eye; however, he did say she has cataracts that are causing blindness in that eye. So, now my little dog is completely blind.

I Now Have Two Hard Choices To Make

The Veterinary Ophthalmologist's recommendation: Do a complete blood workup to rule out diabetes and any other underlying causes, but in the meantime try glaucoma medications in both eyes, but he warned this was only a temporary solution. While anxiously awaiting the results from the tests, I diligently used the drops.

I returned to the doctor in two weeks. All her blood work came back within normal limits. His diagnosis: glaucoma. I now had a choice of either having a procedure done called Ciliary Ablation OR Enucleation .

Ciliary Ablation: Under local anesthesia, the eye is injected with Gentamicin. Eventually the eye itself will actually shrink, but this relieves the pressure in the eye. This pressure causes great pain to the dog, I'm told.

Enucleation (eye removal) :The eye is removed and the eyelids are permanently closed.

I Decided To Have The Ciliary Ablation Done

After discussion with the Ophthalmologist I opted for the Ciliary Ablation. There is a great difference between the cost of both procedure. The Ablation would cost $268.00 versus the eye removal cost of $1,143.00. The cost for these procedures will probably differ in different parts of the U.S.

I could not bear the thought of seeing my little dog's eyelid being sewn shut after the eye was removed.

Baby had the procedure done in the office. She was only there for about an hour. I took her home with instructions to use drops in the eye, and she has to wear this protective cone until her checkup in two weeks. He was insistent about this. I have to protect the eye from infection, etc.

Baby With The Protective Cone

Baby must wear this cone until her checkup in two weeks. It will protect her eye.

I Began To Prepare For My Dog's Blindness

I broke down and cried after hearing my dog was completely blind. It would have been difficult enough if she had gradually gone blind, but this happened so suddenly. I was totally unprepared.

I busied myself researching blindness in dogs to learn all I could about glaucoma, and to prepare myself for the changes in her life (and mine).

I joined several groups of forums for people with blind dogs, and I joined a great group of FaceBook people who shared their stories of their blind dogs and helpful tips on living with a blind dog. One groups has over 3,000 members.

That gives one some idea of just how many of us are dealing with a dog that has lost their sight.

Baby Is Depressed

Dogs go through a period of depression. They just don't understand why their world is now dark.

Owners Feel Guilty Their Dog Has Gone Blind

I am told owners of blind dogs go through the same feelings of guilt (maybe if I had just noticed the changes in the eyes sooner), the sadness, and the longing for the old dog we once knew.

The little dog who loved to play fetch, do lots of tricks (including jumping through a hoop), swimming, playing with other doggie friends, going to the dog park, and walking two miles every day is gone now. It's as though my dog died, and in her place, I have this sightless dog who is very fearful and depressed.

I am told dogs go through a period of depression. They just don't understand why their world has suddenly become dark.

I try very hard not to let her know how sad I am. We are told our feelings are transferred to our dog, so I try to be upbeat and talk to her in my most cheerful voice. Every night I roll her tennis ball to her, hoping she will go after it, but she ignores it completely. I am advised by other people with blind dogs someday she will play ball again.

I know my dog's sight can never be restored, and I am resigned to that. I will make her life as comfortable and happy as possible.

She has given me so many hours of companionship and happiness; now I have the chance to repay her in my small way.

Baby Likes To Nap On The Carpet Runner I Put Down

I Use A "Walking Stick" To Assist Me In Walking Baby

This is the "walking stick" I made from an old broom handle. It helps me to guide my blind dog.

Some Of The Things I Have Done To Help My Dog With Her Blindness

Some things I've done to make life easier for Baby:

I have pinned jingle bells to the legs of my Jeans so she will know where I am.

I laid carpet runners through the house to make paths for her.

I bought a harness for her. I won't use a collar because that would make pressure on her eyes.

I always say her name before I touch her so she is not startled.

We go the same route for our daily walks. She has “mapped” out our route very well.

I talk to her much more, and always use a cheery tone of voice.

I try very hard to allow her to do things on her own. I don't “help” her too much by picking her up to assist her. I want her to learn to be independent.

To prevent her from bumping into furniture, I never move any piece of furniture.

I keep the grass cut low in her yard so no pieces can get into her eyes.

I made a “walking stick” and use that instead of a leash. I can guide her better with the stick.

If I have to go out and she will be alone, I leave the television or radio on for her.

I have taught her many words to help her navigate easier, like: “Up” before we get to a curb, “Left” or “Right” before she bumps into a wall or any other object.

I smeared peanut butter on her doggie door so she could find it.

This Has Been A Learning Experience For Both Baby And Me

Blindness in my Miniature Schnauzer, Baby has, and continues to be, a learning experience for both of us. I know she will always live in a dark world, but I promised her I will do all I can to help her have a comfortable and happy life. So, I feed her homemade chicken and rice because she loves that. She will probably gain some weight, but I really don't care!

If you have a dog who is blind like my Miniature Schnauzer, Baby, I would encourage you to go to the available forums found on the web. Join a couple of these, and you will get good advice from people going through the same experience. I have enjoyed sharing with those people.

If you notice your dog's eyes changing in ANY way like swelling or excess redness, run, don't walk, to your Veterinarian.

When Baby Could See, She Watched For Squirrels.

In Happier Days, Baby Played With Her Tennis Ball

Baby always loved to play with her tennis ball. She is trying to get it out of the fence!

References

http://www.glaucoma.org/glaucoma/glaucoma-facts-and-stats.php

http://www.uvsonline.com/glaucoma/

This Border Collie Has NO eyes, but watch her play ball.

alexadry wrote a valuable article about the symptoms of Glaucoma

Glaucoma Symptoms and Treatment in DogsGlaucoma is a silent condition that can steadily take away a dog's vision. Recognizing early symptoms is very important for a better prognosis and treatment.

My Miniature Schnauzer Has Trained Me WellHaving a dog like my Miniature Schnauzer has taught me many lessons I should have learned long ago. She has taught me patience and has contributed to my good health by her daily walk and our play.

I appreciate any comment after reading my article.

No HTML is allowed in comments, but URLs will be hyperlinked. Comments are not for promoting your articles or other sites.

sending

ocfireflies 2 years agofrom North Carolina

Mary,

I really don't know what to say other than first of all, thank you for loving your Baby. My best friend has three Miniature Schnauzers: Maddie, Pearl and Lila. I have a beagle/fiest? named Bill and a cat named Cosmo. Bill and Cosmo are my babies. Will share and pin for I know there are others like us who have their babies and would benefit from your story and from the great tips you provide.

Blessings,

Kim, Bill and Cosmo

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Good morning, pstraubie48 You are so sweet to wish me a Happy Birthday; you could do that several times if you like! Thanks.

I keep meaning to write a follow up Hub about how Baby and I are coping with her blindness, but haven't taken the time.

You are up bright and early today. I don't see a cloud in the sky here; going to be a beautiful day in our part of the world.

Thanks for the Angels, and thanks for the shares, too.

I hope you have a wonderful day! Hugs, Mary

Patricia Scott 2 years agofrom sunny Florida

First, I guess I am having a senior moment, or two, but I think I told you Happy Birthday yesterday and if I did not...here it is taaaa daaaa...H appy H appy Birthday.

I have read this hub before and my heart aches. But I know a blind pup in your home is a gift to the pup and you. No doubt precious BAby's every need is met by you as you have so lovely shared her with us over the years.

Angels are on the way to her and to you this still dark outside time of the morning ps

shared g+ tweeted

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, AudreyHowitt Baby and am I are coping, but it is taking a lot of love and patience working with her to help her in her dark world. Glaucoma comes on so fast with dogs, we just don't know until it is too late.

I wish you the best with your dog, Mary

Audrey Howitt 2 years agofrom California

You seem like you both are coping well--I have an old dog and her vision is starting to fail so your hub was inspirational for me

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, Stella (ladyguitarpicker) Baby is not as depressed as she was when she first became blind. I think she has resigned herself to her life of darkness. I have received so much help and tips from other owners of blind dogs.

I have my homework cut out for me now: I am going to find those passages about dogs; thanks for coming back to tell me that.

When I see your profile photo, I think for a moment it is my daughter who plays!!

Hope you have a wonderful weekend, Mary

stella vadakin 2 years agofrom 3460NW 50 St Bell, Fl32619

Hi Mary, I am sorry to hear about your dog.I got my dog that could not hear and she was depressed, but now she is like herself. I talk to her and treat her just like she can hear and we learned some hand signals. I believe it helps a lot. I also wanted to tell you dog is in the Bible 24 times, you will find it. Thanks for your hub, Stella

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

FlourishAnyway , good morning! I'm still upset about the Vet. saying she had sunspots over a year ago. We many have prevented Glaucoma if I'd only known in time. No, I don't go to him anymore!

Oh, yes, when you have a pet with a disability, there is a definite bond. Baby was always a very independent dog, but now she seems to know I am her eyes. She is definitely more affectionate now.

I'm sorry your cat has cataracts; I'm sure you just love him to death!

It's sad your mother has glaucoma and cataracts. Does she have any sight left?

Thanks for reading, the votes and the sharing. Mary

FlourishAnyway 2 years agofrom USA

I'm so sorry this happened to your sweet Baby. Florida sunspots in the eyes sound a little suspect to me. I hope you're not still seeing that first vet. I'd be so upset.

I have a deaf cat who also has significant vision problems due to cataracts. He is only a few years old and came to us as a stray kitten like that. I wouldn't trade him for the world. When you have a pet with a disability there is a special bond. They are simply different and you can find creative ways to bond and play. It looks like you are already doing that. My mother has both glaucoma and cataracts so I empathize with Baby's struggles. I wish you both the best.

Voted up and more and sharing.

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Good Morning, phoenix2327 Thanks so much for your concern and best wishes about my little bling dog. She is adjusting much better than I am! I spend a lot of time with her helping her to adjust to her dark world.

Thanks for reading and commenting, Mary

Zulma Burgos-Dudgeon 2 years agofrom United Kingdom

I'm so sorry about Baby. At least she has you to help her ease into a new life. Hope she feels better soon.

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, Victoria Lynn Yes, I'm learning more and more about how to help my doggie to better cope with her sudden blindess. I just ordered the book about how to deal with a blind dog.

She's my Baby, and I would do anything for her, Mary

Victoria Lynn 2 years agofrom Arkansas, USA

Oh, what a beautiful little girl! You are doing so much for her. Has she come out of her depression somewhat? She is so lucky to have such a dedicated owner and friend!

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, Nell Rose Well, first I cried a lot. My heart was broken. Glaucoma takes the dog's sight so suddenly, you just can't believe it is happening. She is coping with her blindness better than I am!

She is such a sweetheart; I'd do anything for her!

Thanks for reading and commenting, Mary

Nell Rose 2 years agofrom England

Your amazing Mary, instead of just panicking about how baby could see you took the bull by the horns and came up with amazing ideas that I would never have even thought of if it had been my dog! well done, and I am sure Baby totally trusts you and will soon perk up, nell

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, pstraubie48 Yes, my heart is broken because my sweet little is now blind. I will do my upmost to make sure her remaining years are happy ones. It will be a challenge, but we can do this!

Thanks so much for the sweet comment and of course, the angels, too. Goodnight, Mary

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, always exploring I wish more people would learn to be more aware of any pending problems with their dog's sight. As I said by the time we see the swollen eye, it's too late to save the dog's sight.

Thanks for reading and commenting, Mary

Patricia Scott 2 years agofrom sunny Florida

O Mary...I know your heart is aching but Baby is so blessed to have you for her Momma. She may be in a dark world now but you are making that new world a place that she can survive and live a new life.

What a blessing our pets are!!!

Sending you and Baby many blessings and hugs and Angels ps Voted up++++

Ruby Jean Fuller 2 years agofrom Southern Illinois

After reading your hub, I am more aware. I can feel your love for your dog. Thank you for sharing tips on what to look for...

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, alexadry Yes, this has been a real heartbreaker for me. She has been blind now for a month, and even though she is adjusting (better than me), she is a shadow of her former self. Time and patience is what everyone tells me.

Your article went more into signs and symptoms of glaucoma, and that is SO important. Thanks for the link on yours and I linked to yours, too.

Yes, I intend to update Baby's condition as time goes by.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend, Mary

Adrienne Janet Farricelli 2 years agofrom USA

I am so sorry to hear of your precious Baby's vision loss.You are doing many things that are very helpful. I particularly like the carpet runners and peanut butter smeared on the doggy door idea. Linked to my article and voted up and helpful. Keep us updated on how she is doing!

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, Jackie Lynnley Baby will never be able to see again, but I would be thrilled to see her play again. Aw, you had a dog named Baby, too?

Yes, I've have gotten a lot of support from this Forum on FB. We all have blindness in common. It's so nice to have support, Mary

Jackie Lynnley 2 years agofrom The Beautiful South

A sad and loving story and I hope Baby recoups soon to start playing again. I know she feels your love and that is what is most important.

I once had a dog named Baby and still miss her after so very many years.

Thanks for sharing and glad you found a group to help you.

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, WillStarr I marvel at the way Baby is coping with her blindness. Dogs are just amazing, aren't they?? One of my daughters wants me to go on a week long trip later this year. I said NO, I can't leave my Baby, especially now.

Thanks for the compliment on my Hub, Will. I hope the next one about her will be happier. Mary

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, bravewarrior It must be terribly confusing for a sighted dog to suddenly have all the lights turned off. I'm sure they don't understand what is going on!

Yes, I was very upset with my regular Vet . Even I could see her eye had a cloudy appearance. No, I don't go to him any longer!

Baby is really a beautiful white Schnauzer (or course I'm partial)!

Baby is coping with her blindness better than I am. I don't let her know how distressed I am! Mary

WillStarr 2 years agofrom Phoenix, Arizona

Our puppies (they are always puppies to me!) cope so much better with diversity than we do...with one exception...they don't cope well with being without their human family for extended periods of time.

This is a superb Hub, Mary!

Shauna L Bowling 2 years agofrom Central Florida

Poor Baby! She must be so confused. You're doing a great job of helping her transition into her blindness, Mary. She'll learn to compensate eventually, with your help. I must say, she's one of the most beautiful Schnauzers I've seen. Her glistening silver coat is just gorgeous.

It distresses me that you regular vet dismissed her condition when you first brought the symptoms to his attention. I hope you've switched vets!

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, travmaj It just amazes me when I learn of so many others who have dogs with eye problems that can lead to blindness. Pannus is one condition I have not heard of. I just Googled it to learn more about it. Baby is so good about having to have drops in her eyes. She gets two different kinds four times a day. I really don't know why they are necessary in the blind eye, but maybe they will help the eye with cataracts.

I hope your dog continues to keep her sight!

Thanks for reading and commenting, Mary

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, greatstuff Thanks for reading and your nice comment. Yes, I will certainly update Baby's progress as time goes on. So nice to see you here today, Mary

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Good Morning, Susan Sproull The folks on the blind dog forum tell me it takes about three months for a blind dog to adjust, and though life will never be the same for them, they do have the ability to adapt.

Thanks for the hugs, I can always use those. Mary

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, DrMark1961 Yes, the two of us spend time learning of new ways to cope with Baby's blindness. I think she is coping much better than I am.

I would be so happy just to see her play again. I'm working on rolling her ball to her, but she just ignores it.

Thanks so much for reading and for your best wishes, Mary

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi there, Faith Reaper Yes, this has been a heart breaker for me, but she and I work hard every day to learn new things that will make her life easier. She is slowly building up her confidence (and so am I).

I appreciate your thoughts and prayers.

Big hug back to you, too. Mary

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Good Morning, Peggy. I certainly hope my article will help other pet owners to look for any signs of Glaucoma. By the time I saw Baby's eye bulging, it was too late.

I'm so happy Skippy is doing well, especially at his age. I remember seeing photos of him on your Hubs; he is just precious. I hope he lives many more years!

Thanks so much for the votes, and the shares, I appreciate your taking the time to share.

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

MartieCoetser , good morning! Thanks for your good wishes for us. As I said it continues to be learning process for us. Thanks for reading and your nice comment, Mary

Mazlan 2 years agofrom Malaysia

Mary, this is an amazing article. Hope Baby will explores her new world better than before. Looking forward to your update.

travmaj 2 years agofrom australia

So sorry to hear this Mary, I feel your sadness and marvel at your coping and how strong you are. That's one plus for technology where we can share with others. How sad that Baby cannot now see and play as she used to. It seems though, with your constant care, that she will slowly adjust. I hope she finds some other fun games to play and finds some contentment despite this terrible setback. . It's such a sad story and I wish you and Baby much future happiness. (my dog has Pannus and has eye drops every day - so far her eyes are holding up although I monitor carefully.)

Susan Sproull 2 years ago

Mary, I believe Baby will adapt. She knows you love her and that you can depend on her. Hugs to you and Baby.

Dr Mark 2 years agofrom The Beach of Brazil

It sounds like you are doing a lot for her. Hopefully she will get more active over time as she gets used to her condition.

I wish you both all the best!

Faith Reaper 2 years agofrom southern USA

Oh, Dear Mary, my heart just aches for you and your Baby. I know how much she means to you and I know just how blessed she is to have you to care for her.

This is certainly an informative hub here. You have surely thought of everything to make her life as wonderful as it can be and I know as long as she knows you are there, she feels comforted and safe.

I am keeping you and Baby in my thoughts and prayers.

Hugs

Peggy Woods 2 years agofrom Houston, Texas

Hi Mary,

What you have written may help many other people with their dogs if they notice any symptoms. Like others have already written, I hope that Baby starts playing again in the near future indicating joy in her life. I know it will bring joy to yours when you see that! Skippy's eyes are starting to get a bit cloudy because of developing cataracts, but he can still see pretty well. He just had his annual checkup today and is good for his age. We are guestimating his age at around 15.

Up votes, pinning this to my dogs board and happy to share. This should be a HOTD!

Martie Coetser 2 years agofrom South Africa

Dear Mary, my heart goes out to you and Baby. Thank you for this well-written, informative and useful hub about Glaucoma in dogs.

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, marcoujor (Maria), Oh, yes, my Baby will always be beautiful to me! She is such a sweet girl. When it's time for her eye drops, I tell her to lie down for me, I say I have to do your eyes now. She never moves. She seems to know this is something that has to be done, and it's for her own good!

I will be writing updates all along as she explores her new world of darkness.

Thank you so much for reading and for your lovely comment, Mary

Maria Jordan 2 years agofrom Jeffersonville PA

"Baby may be blind but she still is beautiful"

This sums up what a loving relationship the two of you have, dear Mary - for better and for worse...

I will look forward to those updates...I pray sweet Baby will continue to cope and discover new ways to play - bringing you joy in the process.

Sending you both hugs, Maria

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, Bob. Blindness in dogs is a lot more common than I ever dreamed. Like I said there are over 3,000 people on the Forum I follow on FB. Baby did go through a period of depression for about a week, but she is much better now. I must say she is coping with her world of darkness better than I thought she would.

Oh, how I would love to write another Hub expressing my joy that she again plays. She will never see again, but I'd sure like to think she is happy and playful.

I do try to remain upbeat around her, though.

Thanks for reading and commenting (and the votes, too). It's always good to see you, Mary

Bob Bamberg 2 years agofrom Southeastern Massachusetts

Terrific hub, Mary. You put a lot of work into it, and it's well written, informative and interesting. I'm sorry that Baby is going through this and for the sadness you're experiencing, but this cloud may yet have a silver lining. We frail, feelin'-sorry-for-ourselves humans are amazed...and inspired...by our dogs' ability to deal with handicaps that would cripple us whimps.

The way they adapt is amazing, and they go through life doing the best they can with what they've got...and never complain. Life just becomes different for them, it seems, and they just deal with it like it's no big thing. They don't mope around or withdraw...they take life head on.

The things you've done to accommodate Baby's blindness will certainly make her life less intimidating, enabling her to go forward with doggie confidence. I think one unit of doggie confidence is equal to 7 units of people confidence!

It would be interesting if, about a year from now, you write a follow-up hub on how Baby's doing. I'll bet it would be a positive, uplifting hub. I voted this one up, useful and interesting.

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

AliciaC , Hi. Thanks for your condolence and concern. There are SO many people who are dealing with blindness in their dogs. I never dreamed this problem was so prevalent.

Thanks again, Mary

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, drbj I have been so busy the past four weeks working with Baby, I have neglected reading Hubs so I know I'm way behind with yours (and others).

I see other dog's photos on the forum chasing and fetching their balls even though they are blind. I am hopeful Baby will soon play again, too.

Thanks so much for reading and commenting, Mary

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi Larry Rankin You are so right about pure bred dogs having problems. Baby also has a bad back and lots of allergies, but I wouldn't trade her for any other dog in the world.

Thanks for reading and commenting. Good to see you here today, Mary

Linda Crampton 2 years agofrom British Columbia, Canada

I am so sorry about Baby's blindness, Mary. You are doing some great things to help her. The information that you have provided will be very useful for other people in a similar situation. Best wishes to you and Baby.

drbj and sherry 2 years agofrom south Florida

I know, mary, that Baby can still feel your love for her and I'm certain that will help her to adjust to this new sightless world. How sad for you.

It's good that you have discovered forums that are helpful and I hope that Baby can soon play ball with you again. And you are absolutely correct: Baby is still beautiful. And so are you, m'dear.

Larry Rankin 2 years agofrom Oklahoma

Beautiful dog.

Eye problems are common, especially in pure breeds.

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, Barbara Kay I'm so sorry you are dealing with a newly blind dog, too. Baby has been blind for about a month now from the Glaucoma. It is just so sad; breaks my heart. She is like a different dog now.

Yes, please check the Forums on FB. The one I like the best is called Blind Dogs. I have gotten so much advice and help from them. It is an open forum, anyone with a blind dog may join.

I wish you all the luck in the world with your dog, Mary

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

billybuc, good morning! Thanks. She is actually coping with her blindness better than I am! I do miss my old playful dog. People post photos of their blind dog running and playing with their ball. Baby won't even try....maybe after some more time.

BTW: Just wondering how those cute goats are doing? I love goats!!

Barbara Badder 2 years agofrom USA

Our Brittany got SARDS this spring. I agree that at first it is a shock, because you find out so quickly. I still feel sad at times, because he can't run in the back yard and we played catch out there so often and he loved it. He is still adjusting to not seeing himself.

I'm sorry to hear about your dog. Thanks for mentioning the forums. Maybe I can get some help there. I posted another comment and my computer was acting up and going all over the place. If it shows up, please delete this one.

Bill Holland 2 years agofrom Olympia, WA

I'm sorry to hear this about your dog. I do know animals are amazingly resilient, and cope so very well to problems like this....and your dog has the advantage of being loved very much, which makes all the difference in the world.

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Mary Hyatt 2 years agofrom Florida

Hi, thumbi7 Yes, it is very sad when your beloved dog goes blind. I would do anything for my little Schnauzer!

Thanks for reading, commenting, and the share. I appreciate that. Hopefully, this article will make people more aware of how their dog's eyes look.

JR Krishna 2 years agofrom India

So sad to see the cloudy eyes. But I am happy to learn that Baby and you together have learnt ways to go on.